Your Guide to Getting to Smith Lake Farm in Beautiful Comox Valley BC
- clealadair
- Mar 23
- 4 min read
Planning a trip to Smith Lake Farm in Merville, BC, means more than just packing your bags. Getting there is part of the adventure, and the journey offers stunning views and memorable experiences. Nestled in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, Smith Lake Farm is easy to reach from several key locations on the island and beyond. Whether you’re coming from Vancouver, Alberta, or the U.S. Pacific Northwest, this guide will help you navigate your way to this charming farm with ease.
Where is Smith Lake Farm?
Smith Lake Farm is located in Merville, a small community within the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The farm is:
About 15 minutes from Courtenay, BC
About 15 minutes from Comox, BC
About 35 minutes south of Campbell River, BC
1.5 hrs from Nanaimo, BC
3 hrs from Victoria, BC
This central location makes it a perfect stop for visitors exploring the island’s east coast.
Driving to Smith Lake Farm from Vancouver, BC
If you’re traveling from Vancouver, expect a total travel time of around 4 to 5 hours. Your journey will include a ferry ride and a scenic drive:
Ferry Options
Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
Tsawwassen (Delta) to Duke Point (Nanaimo)
Drive from Nanaimo to Comox Valley
After disembarking, take Highway 19 north for about 1.5 hours. This drive offers beautiful views of forests and coastline.
Tip: This route is popular among visitors from Metro Vancouver, combining convenience with scenic beauty.
Driving to Smith Lake Farm from Alberta
Traveling from Alberta, including cities like Calgary or Edmonton, is a longer trip, often split over two days. The total travel time ranges from 12 to 16 hours or more. Here’s the typical route:
Drive west through the Canadian Rockies via the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1) or Crowsnest Highway (Hwy 3)
Continue to Vancouver, BC
Take a ferry to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island
Drive north to the Comox Valley
This route is a favorite for road trippers who want to combine mountain landscapes, ocean views, and island experiences.
Traveling from the U.S. Pacific Northwest
Visitors from Washington State often choose one of two main routes:
Via Vancouver, BC (Most Common)
Cross the border at Peace Arch (Surrey, BC) or Pacific Highway Crossing
Drive to either Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal
Take the ferry to Nanaimo, Vancouver Island
Drive north to the Comox Valley
Travel times from Bellingham range from 4.5 to 6 hours, and from Seattle, about 5 to 7 hours.
Alternate Route: Coho Ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria
Depart from Port Angeles, Washington
Take the Coho ferry to Victoria, BC (about 1.5 hours)
Drive north from Victoria to the Comox Valley
This route is often quieter and offers a scenic ferry ride, ideal for those looking to avoid busier ferry terminals.
What to Expect on the Drive
The drive to Smith Lake Farm is part of the experience. You’ll pass through lush forests, coastal views, and charming small towns. Here are some highlights:
Highway 19 offers a smooth drive with several lookout points especially the Malahat if you are coming from Victoria !
Probably a good idea to check out some waterfalls, The Coombs Market or a long sandy beach on your way! Rathtrevor perhaps?
The Comox Valley is known for its fertile farmland and mountain backdrops.
Along the way, you can stop in Courtenay or Comox for local dining or supplies.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
Book your ferry in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and holidays.
Check ferry schedules and possible delays before you leave.
Pack snacks and water for the drive, especially if you plan to explore the area.
Use a GPS or map app to track your route and find local attractions.
Consider stopping at local markets or cafes in Courtenay, Cumberland or Comox to experience the community vibe.
Grocery Shopping at Thrifty (up and down the Island) is always a safe bet!
What to Do at Smith Lake Farm
Once you arrive, Smith Lake Farm offers a peaceful setting to enjoy nature and farm life. Visitors can:
Explore walking trails, swim in our lake or play or disc golf course
Enjoy seasonal farm activities and events
Purchase fresh local produce and farm products
Relax in the natural surroundings staying in one of our glamping tents
Beekeeping tours for all ages
The farm is family-friendly & dog friendly and perfect for a day trip or a longer stay in the Comox Valley.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
While in the Comox Valley, consider visiting:
Mount Washington Alpine Resort for hiking or skiing depending on the season
Comox Marina for waterfront walks and dining
Saturday Farmer's Market is Amazing!
Other Amazing Farms - List Coming Soon!
Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park for gardens and cultural events
Local wineries such as Beaufort's and 40knots and craft breweries like Land and Sea or Cumberland Brewery
These spots add variety to your trip and showcase the diversity of Vancouver Island.
Comments